Gwynedd community launches scheme to give free Sunday lunches to vulnerable residents

A Gwynedd community has set up a new scheme to provide free Sunday lunches for some of its more vulnerable residents during the Coronavirus pandemic.

Set up in Llanrug and Cwm-y-Glo, the project provides weekly meals for those self-isolating or fallling within the “at risk” category, thanks to a partnership between Llanrug Community Council and local firm A & R Catering.

Gaining popularity, the scheme saw 40 meals distributed during its first weekend on May 17, which has since risen to 99.

The clerk of Llanrug Community Council, Meirion Jones, described the setting up of the project as “challenging” but said it was “well worth the effort” with the feedback being “most encouraging.”

Cllr Phil Roberts, the chairman of the council, added: “Llanrug Community Council is incredibly pleased and grateful for being able to work with the partners in this venture.

“The response from those taking up the offer of a meal has been positive and appreciative.

“This service in our ‘new normal’ times, also helps neighbours and residents be reminded of the ‘old normal’, namely, the Sunday lunch!”

Cllr Berwyn Parry, the member for Cwm y Glo on Gwynedd Council, added: “Its been a pleasure to deliver Sunday lunches to the elderly and vulnerable in Cwm y Glo.

“They are all incredibly grateful for the food and are full of praise for it every week.

“Many thanks to A&M Catering for preparing the food, the Bangor Freemasons for organising and funding it, and the Llanrug Community Council for arranging the distribution.”

Anyone living in the community that wishes to partake in the Sunday lunch should contact Meirion Jones on 07769 112875 or email to clerc@llanrug.cymru

By Gareth Williams – Local Democracy Reporter